Cash dispensing automated banking machine display failure detection system and method

ABSTRACT

An ATM is operative to automatically self test a display module thereof. The test determines whether the display module fails to produce an acceptable display output. A predetermined color sequence is sent to the display module for display thereof. A sensor device positioned adjacent the display module screen senses displayed colors. A machine computer determines whether the display module displayed the correct color sequence. A display module error signal is generated responsive to the display module failing to display the proper color sequence. Testing of the display module can continue repeatedly to continually update its operational status.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/921,413filed Aug. 16, 2004 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,025,257, which is a divisionalof U.S. application Ser. No. 10/745,254 filed Dec. 23, 2003 now U.S.Pat. No. 6,966,486, which claims benefit pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §119(e)of Provisional Application No. 60/436,848 filed Dec. 26, 2002.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to cash dispensing automated banking machines.Specifically this invention relates to failure detection of an automatedbanking machine display module.

BACKGROUND ART

Automated banking machines are well known in the prior art. Automatedbanking machines may include automated teller machines (ATMs) throughwhich consumers may conduct banking transactions. Other types ofautomated banking machines may include devices which count or delivercash or other items of value to a consumer, bank teller or other user,as well as point of sale (POS) terminals and other terminals whichenable users to carry out transactions of value.

Some types of automated banking machines are used to dispense cash orother items such as tickets, travelers checks, coupons, scrip, wageringslips, vouchers, or other items of value. Some automated bankingmachines accept deposits in the form of envelopes, checks, cash, orother items. Some automated banking machines can be used for providingcredit, making bill payments, or to debit or deposit funds in variousaccounts.

Automated banking machines typically include a user interface. Theinterface can be used to provide visual outputs to a user as well as toreceive user inputs. A common output device for an interface is a visualdisplay. A display module can be used to provide outputs and otherinformation to a user. In some machines a display module may include a“touch screen” which enables a user to input instructions by bringing afinger adjacent to the screen of the display module. In machines thatuse a touch screen, the touch screen can serve as both an output deviceand an input device.

Many different types of displays can be used with regard to automatedbanking machines. The displays may be the conventional type or the touchscreen type. Such machines may also use displays which are liquidcrystal (LCD) or flat panel types, as well as CRT types. Monochromedisplays can be used in some machines while color displays can be usedin others.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

Typically, service personnel are informed of an automated bankingmachine display failure after a user, such as a customer, notifies theirbank. Thus, there exists a need for diagnostic capability to detectimage failure of an automated banking machine display. There furtherexists a need for display diagnostic capability that is reliable,compact, and low in cost. There further exists a need for diagnosticcapability that is suitable for use with different types of automatedbanking machines displays.

It is an aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention to providevisual output device diagnostic capability.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention is toprovide display module diagnostic capability.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention is toprovide an automated banking machine.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention is toprovide an automated banking machine with visual output devicediagnostic capability.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention is toprovide an automated banking machine with display module diagnosticcapability.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention is toprovide an automated banking machine with display module failuredetection.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention is toprovide an automated banking machine with image display capabilitydetection.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention is toprovide an automated banking machine with LCD failure detection.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention is toprovide an automated banking machine with display failure detection thatis simple and reliable in construction and operation.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention is toprovide an automated banking machine with display failure detection thatis low in cost.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a method for detecting automated banking machine display moduledisplay capability.

A further aspect of an exemplary form of the present invention is toprovide a method for detecting the failure of an automated bankingmachine display module to display an image.

Further aspects of exemplary forms of the present invention will be madeapparent in the following Best Modes for Carrying Out Invention and theappended claims.

The foregoing aspects can be accomplished in an exemplary embodiment ofthe present invention by an automated banking machine. The automatedbanking machine can include a display module failure detectionarrangement. The display module can include an LCD. The arrangement candetect the capability of an LCD to show images. The arrangement caninclude a sensor device located adjacent an LCD panel. The sensor devicecan include a photo sensor device. The photo sensor device is capable ofsensing each color in a color sequence or pattern in a visual outputarea. The visual output area can be a small test area of the LCD panel.A program or subroutine operating in a controller of an automatedbanking machine can continuously supply signals operative to cause acolor sequence or pattern to be displayed in the test area. Circuitry inthe failure detection arrangement can be used to compare the colorsand/or patterns to be produced in supplied sequence to the colors sensedby the photo sensor device. The circuitry enables the machine tocontinuously check if an exact color and/or pattern test sequence wasactually displayed. That is, the circuitry enables the machine to checkfor display failure. Thus, a run time diagnostic can keep the LCD statusmonitored. Display module failure can be determined independent of theautomated banking machine display module used.

In an exemplary form of operation of the present invention, an automatedbanking machine controller or computer runs a program which canrepeatedly submit signals to cause the same color sequence (e.g., blue,red, green) to be output in the LCD test area. The photo sensor devicesenses the sequence colors actually displayed in the test area. Thecomputer is operative to compare the submitted color sequence with thesensed output sequence of colors. If the exact color sequence does notmatch then a display diagnostic error signal can be generated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an automated banking machine.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of a display module failure detectionarrangement.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the arrangement of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 shows a view of a display module failure detection arrangementincluding a circuit card.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary form of a test color sequence.

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of an exemplary form of interrelatedmodules associated with a display screen diagnostic operation.

FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of an exemplary form of a componentarrangement associated with display module monitoring.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, there is showntherein an isometric view of an exemplary automated banking machinegenerally indicated 10. Automated banking machine 10 is an ATM. However,it should be understood that the present invention may be used in othertypes of automated banking machines, including currency counting units,currency acceptors, currency recyclers, depositories, scrip terminals,POS terminals, and similar type devices.

Automated banking machine 10 includes a fascia 12 which includes a userinterface. The fascia includes an opening through which a display screen14 of a display module may be viewed. A display screen is used forproviding outputs such as instructions and messages to users of themachine. The fascia also has thereon a keyboard 16 through which theuser may enter instructions.

The fascia also includes openings for other types of devices andmechanisms. In the embodiment shown these include a depository opening18 into which a user may place deposits. A currency delivery opening 20is also provided through which currency can be delivered to the user.For example, cash (e.g., currency sheets) may be dispensed from an ATMto a user by a cash dispenser mechanism. The fascia may also include acard entry slot 22 wherein a user can input a debit or credit card whichcan be used to initiate operation of the ATM. The fascia may alsoinclude a receipt delivery opening 24 through which transaction receiptscan be delivered to the user.

The exemplary automated banking machine may include numerous transactionfunction devices and one or more controllers that are operative to causeoperation of the devices. An exemplary control system for an ATM isshown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,505,177 the disclosure of which is incorporatedherein by reference. Of course this ATM architecture is exemplary and inother embodiments other approaches may be used.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of a display failure detection arrangementhaving at least one photo sensor device 26 is placed adjacent to adisplay screen 28, such as an LCD panel. FIG. 3 shows a side view of thearrangement of FIG. 2. An automated banking machine controller isoperative to execute a display color diagnostic program. Computerreadable media bearing computer executable instructions (e.g., software)can be operative to cause the controller or computer to carry out thediagnostic program. The exemplary programs may reside on or be loadedinto memory from media such as a hard disk, CD-ROM, PROM, memory card,floppy disk or other media article.

An exemplary program can operate to cause signals normally operative tocause the same color pattern or sequence (e.g., blue, red, green) to becontinuously and repeatedly output in a display screen test area 30.Thus, an ATM display module can be continuously tested. The controllercan send a display instructions or signals to a display module to directthe displaying of a predetermined color pattern or sequence. A sequencecan include an arrangement of single colors or an arrangement of pluralsame colors next to each other. Black/white sequences can be used. Forexample, a color sequence may include “black, white, black, white” or“red, green, blue” or “red, red, green, blue, blue, blue” or “green,black, red, blue, white, red, white, black.” A predetermined colorsequence may also include a certain number of first color type (e.g.,two red) followed by a certain number of a second color type (e.g.,three green). A pattern of plural same colors followed by plural othercolors can be used. For example, a sequence may include a plurality ofsame first type colors (e.g., four blue) followed by a plurality of samesecond type colors (e.g., two red) followed by a plurality of same thirdtype colors (e.g., three green). Of course this is exemplary and inother embodiments other colors and patterns may be produced.

The photo sensor device 26 may be of the type which is operative tosense colors which have been displayed in the screen test area 30 of theLCD. The photo sensor device may include a photo diode. The photo sensordevice may be arranged to sense colors individually or plurally. Thatis, the photo sensor device may be operative to return a plurality ofsingle colors or a single (or plural) pattern of plural colors to theATM controller. The photo sensor device may be arranged to sense hues orproperties of light by which a color is classified in reference to aspectrum. In some embodiments the sensor may be operative to sensecolors and/or patterns that are output at separate times orsimultaneously.

The photo sensor device can be of a size which corresponds to the sizeof the test area. For example, the photo sensor device may be of a sizewhich permits sensing of a test color the size of the test area. Thetest area can be a small area relative to the total LCD area. In anexemplary embodiment of the present invention the test area can be a 4×4mm square area. Of course detection may be used with test areas ofsmaller or larger size. The photo sensor device 26 can be part of acircuit card 32, e.g., LCD failure detection circuit card, as shown inFIG. 4. The photo sensor device 26 can also include more than one photosensor. A sensor device can be located exterior of a display screen testarea. That is, a sensor device can be positioned intermediate a displayscreen and an outside user area. A sensor device can also be disposedfrom or in contacting relationship with a display screen. In someexemplary embodiments one or more sensors may be positioned in an areaof the ATM fascia adjacent an opening for the screen on the userinterface. This enables the sensor to be positioned in underlyingrelation of the fascia so that the sensor is not subject to tampering orcontamination. In other embodiments the one or more sensors may bepositioned intermediate of the outer surface containing the liquidcrystal or other display material, and an outer transparent surfacethrough which an ATM user views the display. In still other alternativeembodiments one or more sensors may be embedded in the transparentmembers through which a user views the indicia output by the display.

Other approaches may be used in other embodiments. For example in someembodiments one or more mirror surfaces may be positioned in or adjacentto the line of sight for the display. Such mirror surfaces may be usedto direct light in the test area to one or more sensors positionedoutside the line of sight of the user. In some embodiments a partiallysilvered mirror surface may be employed so that the test area of thedisplay from which light is detected may still be used by a user. Inother embodiments, fiber optic strands or other light guides may be usedto direct light from the display to one or more sensors. Of course inother embodiments other light directing devices or light guides may beused. In still other embodiments multiple disposed sensors and/or testareas may be used. For example, in some embodiments the display may becomprised of one or more back lights which serve as light sourcepositioned behind the display, and one or more layers of liquid crystalor other material may be positioned in the display between the lightsource and the user. In such embodiments, sensors may be positionedadjacent to one or more components so that sensing is conducted todetermine if a particular component is operating properly. For example,a sensor may be positioned adjacent to the light source so as to senselight directly therefrom. Such a sensor may be usable to determine thata light source failure has occurred, rather than a failure of acomponent of the display overlying the light source. Alternatively or inaddition, sensors may be positioned within or adjacent to specificlayers of material that produce various aspects of the display outputsuch as each color component. This may enable sensing each of thecomponent layers for operability independently.

In some alternative embodiments multiple disposed test areas may beused. For example, multiple test outputs may be sequentially orsimultaneously produced in disposed areas of the display and sensed byappropriate sensors. This may include for example, producing testoutputs in disposed areas along one side of a display, or on differentsides, adjacent the corners of the display or in other suitable areas.In other alternative embodiments, test areas may be sensed in areas morecentral to the display. This may be done for example through the use ofsmall embedded fiber optic strands that conduct output light from anarea of the display within the line of sight to one or more remotesensors outside the user's line of sight. Such testing may have theadvantage that it enables testing for outputs in more central areas ofthe display and/or in more areas. Testing in some embodiments may bemade inconspicuous such as by outputting and sensing test sequencesincluding colors and/or patterns when the ATM is not in use.Alternatively or in addition, one or more controllers may be programmedto run the test sequence at certain times during machine operation sothat the test sequence is not likely to be noticed by a user.Alternatively in some embodiments which include a touch screen, thecontroller may be programmed to output and sense the test sequence inthe area of the display that underlies a user's finger when the user issensed as touching the exterior surface of the touch screen. Of coursethese approaches are exemplary, and in other embodiments otherapproaches may be used.

In an exemplary embodiment the controller is operative to compare thesubmitted color sequence with the sensed output sequence of colors. Forexample, the first color in the known sequence can be compared with thefirst color in the sensed sequence. This comparison can be continued forall of the individual color entries in the color sequence.Alternatively, the controller may be arranged to simultaneously comparea number of colors, e.g., all of the colors in the color sequence. Thecontroller may also be operative to receive individual sensed colorsfrom the photo sensor or other sensor device, then arrange the receivedcolor information into a complete color sequence prior to simultaneouscomparison of the entire two sequences. Thus, individual colors, partialcolor sequences, or complete color sequences may be compared.

If a known submitted color (or a color sequence) does not exactly matcha corresponding sensed display color (or a color sequence), then adisplay diagnostic error can be generated. That is, if not everysubmitted color matches a corresponding displayed color in the orderedsequence of colors, then the controller is operative to generate anappropriate error message or other signal.

The display color diagnostic program can be implemented to continuouslycheck the display for failure to produce a proper color. The failure maybe the result of the display to produce proper images or any display.Thus, the failure of an ATM LCD can be detected and service personnel(e.g., at a service center) can be informed of the failure. This may bedone in some embodiments in the manner shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,984,178,the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The display color diagnostic arrangement may be used to detect failuresin LCD functions such as red, blue, green fundamental colors (e.g., withthe three most significant bits); pixel clock; vertical sync; horizontalsync; and DE.

The ATM can also include a dimmer sensor 34 operative to sense the levelof ambient light shining on the display screen. The dimmer sensor ispreferably placed close to the screen to more accurately sense the levelof ambient light associated with the display screen. Too much or toolittle ambient light (and at an undesirable angle) can make it difficultfor a user of the machine to read the output of the display screen. Forexample, a high (bright) level of light may cause screen glare. In anexemplary embodiment the ATM controller is operative to receive signalsindicative of the measured amount of ambient light from the dimmersensor and compare it to an acceptable range. The ATM controller may beoperative to adjust the display brightness and/or contrast to compensatefor an unacceptable level of light sensed by the dimmer sensor. This maybe done for example by adjusting the output of back lighting, theproperties of the material in the display for passing or reflectinglight and other programmed parameters. Thus, the ATM is operative tomaintain a display output which is readable to a user of the ATM.

In an exemplary embodiment the same display failure detection circuitcard which includes a photo sensor can also include one or moreadditional sensors, such as a dimmer sensor 34. FIG. 4 shows a view (topor side) of an arrangement including a photo sensor device 26, displayscreen 28, screen test area 30, circuit card 32, and dimmer sensor 34.As shown, a photo sensor can be located on a circuit card opposite adimmer sensor. That is, a photo sensor can be on one side of the cardfacing the display screen and a dimmer sensor can be on an opposite sideof the card facing away from the display screen. Thus, both the photosensor and the dimmer sensor can be positioned adjacent the same commonscreen test area. Of course more than one of the same sensor type ordifferent types of sensors may be used. The sensors can also be adjacentto a display screen at a location not accessible to a user of themachine. For example, a screen test area may be generally hidden fromthe view of ATM users by fascia structure.

The photo sensor device 26 may also be of the type which is operative tosense the brightness (light level) output of an LCD. The ATM can beoperative to use a brightness sequence in a manner similar to the use ofa color sequence. The photo sensor may be operative to sense thebrightness of a displayed test output sequence (e.g., black, black,white, black) in a screen test area. The ATM can also be operative tocompare the sensed brightness sequence in a manner similar to thecomparison of the sensed color sequence to determine if the displaymodule is functioning properly. A comparison can be made of the senseddisplay brightness output, with a stored acceptable display brightnesslevel or range. For example, the sensed brightness of one or moreoutputs in the displayed sequence can be compared through operation ofone or more controllers with the corresponding or ordered one or moresubmitted brightness outputs from the stored sequence. The ATMcontroller may also be operative to compare the brightness pattern of anentire displayed sequence with the known brightness pattern of theentire stored sequence. For example, in the sequence “black, black,white, black, white, black” the first sensed output “black” can becompared with the first submitted “black,” which has a known brightness(or darkness) level. If the first sensed “black” falls within anacceptable range of the first submitted “black” then the second sensedoutput “black” can be compared for acceptability. The sequencecomparison can continue until completion. That is, in this example,until each of the four “black” and two “white” have been compared totheir corresponding standard. The sequence comparison can be repeatedcontinuously or conducted periodically. Furthermore, different degreesor shades of “black” and/or “white” may be used, e.g., grays. Colorsdifferent than black and white may also be used (e.g., blue, red,green). Still, other embodiments may compare the total amount ofbrightness sensed in a display sequence with the total amount ofsequence brightness submitted for display. That is, a combined amount ofsensed light may be compared to the combined amount of light submittedfor display. A determined brightness output level outside of anacceptable range can result in the diagnostic program generating adisplay module diagnostic error. Thus, a run time diagnostic can keep anATM display status continually monitored.

One or more sensors (e.g., photo sensor device) may also be used tocheck lamp or back light efficiency. Also, the same sensor (or sensors)used for display module (e.g., LCD) failure detection can also be usedin lamp efficiency checking. A controller or computer may be programmedto execute a diagnostic program to automatically check the brightnessvalue of one or more back light lamps. Checking can be carried outcontinually or on a predetermined frequency. For example, the diagnosticprogram may perform a back light efficiency check once a week (i.e., oneout of every seven days) using a photo sensor device at an ATM. A checkcan be performed with the lamps at maximum brightness. This may involvechanging (e.g., raising) the current brightness level of an LCD screen.An unacceptable maximum lamp brightness level can be programmed at afixed level or as a predetermined percentage of the initial (orexpected) maximum lamp brightness level. For example, it may be time tochange a lamp when its measured maximum brightness level is 50% or lessof the initial maximum brightness level. That is, a 50% or morereduction in maximum brightness may be the level predetermined as theend of lamp life. Of course other brightness levels (maximum or notmaximum) or percentages may be used in determining an end of life forone or more lamps. Additionally, some lamps in the same machine may havedifferent end of life brightness levels. One or more controllers in theATM may be programmed to cause the machine to test this aspect ofdisplay operation and to determine based on the outputs sensed whetherthere is a problem. Upon or responsive to a determination of aninefficient, unacceptable, defective, or failed lamp, a servicingrequest signal can be initiated, such as by the controller or acomputer. The signal (which may be associated with one or moreparticular lamps) may be sent to a service center. Thus, a machinehaving need of lamp replacement can have the necessary authorities, suchas service personnel, automatically notified or advised. Additionally,if an ATM is determined as having a back lighting brightness (or adisplay) unacceptable for proper customer usage of the ATM, then themachine may be automatically taken out of service or shutdown.

An exemplary embodiment employing certain aspects of the presentinvention permits certain existing ATMs to be retrofitted to include thedisplay failure detection. That is, an existing ATM may be modified toinclude programming of one or more controllers which execute a displaydiagnostic program in association with one or more photo sensorsadjacent a display screen test area. An ATM's diagnostic application canalso be modified to link with a display diagnostic arrangement forgeneration of diagnostic errors and record keeping in one or more datastores associated with one or more controllers.

In an exemplary form of operation, an automated banking machinecontroller, which may be alternatively referred to as a computer, runs aprogram which can repeatedly submit signals which would normally causeoutput of the same color sequence in a display screen test area. Thephoto sensor device senses the colors of the color sequence which wereactually displayed in the test area. The exemplary photo sensor devicecan sense individually displayed colors. For example, after a firstsequence color (e.g., blue) is displayed, the sensor device can sensethe first color (e.g., blue) being displayed. The sensor device can thendetect the next sequence color displayed (which may be a color out ofthe sequence order). The photo sensor device is operative to causesignals corresponding to the sensed information to be delivered to thecontroller. Alternatively, the sensed information can be first stored inmemory prior to transfer to the controller for comparison or analysis.For example, sensed data may be stored in a data store until an entiresequence (e.g., ten individual colors) has been attempted to be outputthrough the display. The computer and/or program is operative to comparethe attempted submitted color sequence (which can correspond to a knownstandard color sequence) with the actual sensed color sequence. If thecompared color sequences do not match or otherwise exhibit a properrelationship, then a display diagnostic error can be generated.Alternatively or in addition, one or more controllers may be programmedto analyze the data to determine the nature of the failure. This may beuseful for purposes of remedial service. For example, the controller candeliver information indicating back light failure, particular displaycomponent failures or other useful service information. Thus, one ormore fault messages can be generated responsive to a malfunctioningdisplay module. Furthermore, in some embodiments a display module can becontinuously tested for rapid notification of when a malfunction hasoccurred. This ability can increase the availability or uptime of anATM.

In an operative example, a repeating test color sequence may consist of“blue, blue, blue, blue, red, red, red, red, green, green, green,green,” presented in a rectangular pattern as shown in FIG. 5. In theexample, a photo sensor device includes at least one photo sensor whichcan sense at least the colors “blue,” “red,” and “green.” It should beunderstood that in this embodiment the rectangular pattern of color isoutput in the same position on the display in different hues atdifferent times. The program may be configured so that individual colorsare compared. That is, the first sensed output of the sequence can becompared with a standard for “blue.” If the first sensed output isdetermined to be within the acceptable range of “blue” then the programmoves on to compare the second sensed output. If the second sensedoutput is also determined to be within the acceptable range of “blue”then the program can continue to compare the next sensed output, etc.The acceptable range of “blue” for the first submitted “blue” may differthan the acceptable range of “blue” for the second submitted “blue.”That is, the first and second colors in the color sequence may bedifferent tones of blue. Likewise, other colors may be of differenttones or hues. Of course in some embodiments all blues (and reds andgreens) may be identical. If the first sensed output of the colorsequence falls outside an acceptable level or range of the firstsubmitted “blue” then the ATM is operative to generate a displaydiagnostic error signal.

Alternatively, the comparison arrangement may involve simultaneouslycomparing a sensed pattern of colors to the known color sequence. Forexample, the individually sensed colors could be temporarily storeduntil the sensing of the entire sequence is completed, then the entiresensed sequence can be compared to the known color sequence. Thecomparison may be of the individual sequence entries or the comparisonmay be of plural sequence entries. That is, the comparison may involvesimultaneously comparing all of the entire sensed color sequence withthe known color sequence.

The color sequence comparison may occur in a diagnostic applicationassociated with testing the operability of one or more photo sensors.The color sequence set submitted for repeating display can be separatefrom (or identical to) the color sequence set used for comparison fortesting proper operation of the display. The diagnostic application cancompare the sensed color sequence for a match of the known colorsequence. The computer may be programmed to identify one or more sensorproblems, and may be operative to generate signals indicative thereof.

A timing mechanism may be used to correspond sequence submission withsequence sensing. Alternatively, a photo sensor device can be initiatedto sense a numbered pattern of colors without regard to a correspondingtime. For example, if the color sequence “blue, blue, blue, blue, red,red, red, red, green, green, green, green” is used, then there aretwelve color entries or placement orders in the sequence. The photosensor device can be operated to sense a pattern of twelve consecutivecolors. The pattern does not have to start with blue. The pattern canstart at any of twelve entry points in the color sequence. That is, theATM can view the known color sequence as a continuous loop. An ATMcomputer can be operative to use pattern recognition to determinewhether the sensed color pattern matches the known color sequence. Thatis, the ATM can be operative to recognize that the sensed displaypattern “red, green, green, green, green, blue, blue, blue, blue, red,red, red” is a correct sequence match, and the display module isoperating properly.

The testing of the display module may continue repeatedly to continuallyupdate its display status. Thus, the display status may be known in realtime. Alternatively, testing may be done at other times, such asperiodically on a timed basis and/or in relation to transaction activityconducted at the ATM.

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of interrelated hardware and/or softwaremodules in an example of a display screen diagnostic operation. A testsequence is output from module 40 to the display module 42. A video cardincluding a controller may be used to output a test color sequence, forexample. The display module can be an ATM display module. One or moresensors 44 adjacent the display screen can detect each displayed color.Sensor data can be sent to a number of other hardware or softwaremodules, such as modules related to HW fault detection 46, USB stack 48,USB device driver 50, I/O handler 52, and a DLL associated with managingmodule interfaces 54. Failure results can be managed by a machine widediagnostic software application 56. The failure results can also belogged into a logging software application 58.

FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of a component arrangement example fordisplay module monitoring. As shown, the functionality of the displayscreen may be only one of many display module features which aremonitored. A controller represented as CPU 60 can be used to coordinateand control monitoring of a display module. The CPU may provide forcommunication therewith via USB. As previously described, a displayscreen 62 can have one or more sensors, such as a photo sensor 64 (e.g.,photo diode) adjacent one or more test areas thereof. The photo sensoris able to distinguish a specific color from a range of different colors(including no color) which may be displayed in the test area.

Light sensors 66, which may include one or more dimmer sensors, are eachoperative to sense a level of light. Certain light sensors (e.g., adimmer sensor) can be associated with the display screen 62 while othersensors can be associated with determining whether specific ATM lamps 68(i.e., lamp no. 1 to lamp no. 12) are properly operating (e.g., emittingsufficient light). The light sensor data can proceed to an inverter 70prior to entering the CPU 60. A DC/DC converter 72 and/or a VDC (videodisplay control) monitor 74 may also be used. The VDC monitor can assistin establishing proper display module settings for optimum viewability.

The CPU 60 may also be operatively connected with a DVI receiver 76. Thereceiver 76 may be operative to enable viewing of video out from theCPU. A fan sub module 78 and a temperature sensor 80 are also shown.Operation of a display module fan can be responsive to the innerenvironment of a display module reaching a predetermined temperature.Thus, the component arrangement of FIG. 7 can provide for the monitoringand control of an ATM display module.

As described herein, an automated banking machine is operative to test adisplay module for display failure. The testing can determine whetherthe display module fails to produce an acceptable display output. Apredetermined color sequence can be sent to the display module. A sensordevice positioned adjacent the display module screen can be operative tosense displayed colors. A machine controller can determine whether thedisplay module actually displayed the color sequence based on thesignals sent. A display module error signal can be generated by thecontroller responsive to the display module failing to display theproper color sequence. The testing of the display module may continuerepeatedly and/or automatically to continually update its displaystatus.

It should be understood that although the exemplary embodiments havebeen described with reference to a sequence comprising a plurality ofcolors output in a rectangular pattern within a test area, othersequences which include other patterns may be used in alternativeembodiments. These may include designs of varying geometric shapes andcolor patterns or orders of presentation. Such geometric shapes andcolors may be sensed, recognized and analyzed as part of a sequence.Alternatively or in addition, sequences may include changing or movingpatterns which can be sensed and analyzed through one or morecontrollers. Of course these approaches are exemplary, and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used.

In some exemplary embodiments or ATMs, the principles described hereinmay be used for purposes of not only testing display functions but alsoother ATM functions. For example, in some embodiments the ATM mayincorporate certain types of transaction function devices that are nottotally dependent on the ATM for operational capability. Such a devicemight include, for example, a module or subsystem that is operative tocause a user to be credited with value to a remote utility account, suchas an account that is used to pay for phone service at a phone company.The ATM may be configured to enable users to transfer value into suchaccounts. The ATM may be configured so that when the subsystem thatprovides this function is operational, such as, for example, able tocommunicate with one or more remote systems to carry out its intendedfunction, a sequence is output in a test area of the screen. Detectionand analysis of the sequence can be used to verify that the subsystem isoperational. Variations in the sequence may also be used in someembodiments to indicate operational status conditions or properties ofthe subsystem. In some embodiments aspects of the sequence may beresponsive to the remote system. One or more controllers in the ATM maybe operative to monitor and analyze the sequence, and adjust or controloperational properties of the ATM in response thereto, such as notoffering the related transactions when the subsystem is not available.

Alternatively the principles described herein may be used in someembodiments to indicate the operational characteristics of devices orsoftware functions of the ATM in addition to the display. For example insome ATM embodiments, such as some described in the incorporateddisclosure, screen display data may be based on programs that areoperationally distinct from the programs that directly cause operationof ATM transaction function devices. Alternatively, some ATM softwareconfigurations may include application software that is provided by anentity other than the entity that manufactured the ATM. In suchembodiments the ATM controller may be programmed to monitor the statusof one or more devices and to produce as a result thereof one or moresequences on the one or more test areas or windows of the display thatis not controlled by the application. In some embodiments the testsequence may be indicative of device status data as well as the colorsor patterns that test operability of the display. By monitoring theoutput sequence in the one or more test areas and feeding back thesensed information to one or more controllers, the ATM is enabled tomonitor the operational status of one or more transaction functiondevices as well as the display. This may enable detection of problemsprior to the occurrence of any failed transactions, such as a cashdispensing transaction. Alternatively or in addition, in someembodiments such features may be used to verify that certain transactionfunction devices, or subsystems are functioning properly, and that ifproblems occur that they reside with hardware or software other thanthat which is associated with the output sequence. This could include,for example, a problem with the application software. Of course thisapproach is exemplary of many that may be used.

Thus the exemplary display module failure detection system and methodcan achieve one or more of the above-stated objectives, eliminatedifficulties encountered in the use of prior devices and systems, solveproblems, and attain the desirable results described herein.

In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity,clarity and understanding. However, no unnecessary limitations are to beimplied therefrom because such terms are for descriptive purposes andare intended to be broadly construed. Moreover, the descriptions andillustrations herein are by way of examples and the invention in notlimited to the details shown or described.

In the following claims any feature described as a means for performinga function shall be construed as encompassing any means capable ofperforming the recited function, and shall not be deemed limited to themeans shown or described herein for performing the recited function ormere equivalents thereof.

Having described the features, discoveries and principles of theinvention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated and theadvantages and useful results attained; the new and useful structures,devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems,equipment, operations, methods and relationships are set forth in theappended claims.

1. At least one article including computer executable instructions operative to cause at least one computer to carry out a method comprising: (a) instructing a display module of an automated banking machine including a cash dispenser mechanism operative to dispense currency from the machine to a machine user, to display a predetermined sequence including a plurality of colors responsive to computer operation of at least one computer of the machine; (b) determining responsive to the computer operation whether the display module displayed the predetermined sequence; and (c) generating responsive to the computer operation a display module error signal responsive to a negative determination in (b).
 2. The at least one article according to claim 1 wherein step (b) includes sensing outputs displayed through the display module.
 3. The at least one article according to claim 2 wherein (b) includes comparing the sensed outputs to at least a portion of the predetermined sequence.
 4. The at least one article according to claim 1 wherein the computer executable instructions are further operative to cause a repeating of steps (a)-(c) responsive to a positive determination in (b).
 5. The at least one article according to claim 4 wherein repeating step (a) includes instructing the display module to again display the predetermined sequence.
 6. At least one article including computer executable instructions operative to cause at least one computer to carry out a method comprising: (a) instructing an automated banking machine display module to output a predetermined ordered sequence including a plurality of colors responsive to computer operation of at least one computer of the machine; (b) sensing outputs displayed through the display module responsive to the computer operation; (c) comparing responsive to the computer operation an order of the sensed outputs with the predetermined ordered sequence for order correspondence; and (d) generating responsive to the computer operation a display module failure signal responsive to the order of the sensed outputs not corresponding to the predetermined ordered sequence.
 7. The at least one article according to claim 6 wherein the display module includes a display screen having a display screen area, wherein (a) includes instructing the display module to display the predetermined ordered sequence in a display screen test area of a size less than the display screen area.
 8. The at least one article according to claim 6 wherein (a) includes instructing the display module to display a predetermined hue sequence including at least three different colors.
 9. The at least one article according to claim 8 wherein (a) includes instructing the display module to display a predetermined hue sequence including the colors blue, red, and green.
 10. At least one article including computer executable instructions operative to cause at least one computer to carry out a method comprising: (a) instructing a display module of an automated banking machine including a cash dispenser to display a predetermined pattern responsive to computer operation of at least one computer of the machine; (b) determining responsive to the computer operation if the pattern was not displayed.
 11. The at least one article according to claim 10 wherein the computer executable instructions are further operative to cause generating a display module error signal responsive to the computer operation responsive to a determination that the pattern was not displayed.
 12. The at least one article according to claim 10 wherein (a) includes instructing the display module to display a predetermined multiple color sequence.
 13. The at least one article according to claim 12 wherein (a) includes instructing the display module to display a predetermined color sequence including the colors blue, red, and green.
 14. The at least one article according to claim 12 wherein (a) includes instructing the display module to display a predetermined color sequence consisting of black and white.
 15. The at least one article according to claim 10 wherein (a) includes instructing the display module to display a predetermined brightness sequence.
 16. The at least one article according to claim 10 wherein (a) includes instructing the display module to display the pattern in an area underlying a fascia of the machine.
 17. The at least one article according to claim 10 wherein the display module comprises at least one light source providing backlighting, wherein the computer executable instructions are further operative to cause (c) determining responsive to the computer operation, if the at least one light source exhibits a malfunction; and (d) sending responsive to the computer operation, at least one message responsive to a determination that at least one light source exhibits a malfunction.
 18. The at least one article according to claim 10 wherein the machine comprises a plurality of transaction function devices, and wherein (a) includes instructing the display module to display a predetermined sequence in responsive to a status associated with at least one transaction function device.
 19. The at least one article according to claim 10 wherein (a) includes instructing the display module to display a predetermined sequence in a plurality of disposed test areas of the display module, and wherein (b) includes sensing for display outputs in the plurality of test areas.
 20. At least one article including computer executable instructions operative to cause at least one computer to carry out a method including: (a) instructing a display device of a user interface of an automated banking machine having a cash dispenser to produce at least one output to a display screen of the display device responsive to operation of the at least one computer; (b) sensing with at least one sensor device a level of ambient light shining on the display screen; (c) determining responsive to operation of the at least one computer whether the sensed level of ambient light is an unacceptable level of ambient light; and (d) adjusting intensity of at least one light source adapted to illuminate the display screen responsive to determinating an unacceptable level of ambient light. 